As the capital and most populated city in Denmark, Copenhagen receives around 2 million tourists every year. Visiting Copenhagen is indeed a dream. There is so much beauty to behold no matter which neighborhood you choose to explore. From the Little Mermaid Statue and other sightly landmarks to historic towns and marketplaces, you will find there is a lot to take in such a small amount of time.
History In the Beginning...
The city of Copenhagen dates way back to the 11th century when it received its first settlers. However, it wasn't until Copenhagen was under the reign of Bishop Absalon (a Danish archbishop) in the 12th century that it began to receive more attention. A stone wall was put up in the 13th century to barricade the city as it rapidly grew in importance and became a center for trade.
The Coronation of Christian IV of Denmark... After the coronation of Christian IV of Denmark in 1596, the city formed new districts, fortresses, and had undergone other modern enhancements. By the time Christian IV of Denmark passed away, Copenhagen had become a vital citadel and naval port for the nation. It was also deemed a center for trade in Northern Europe.
Money... The Danish Krone is the official currency of Copenhagen. One Danish Krone is equal to USD 0.15. Banknotes come in the values of 1,000, 500, 200, 100, and 50, while coins are in 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1. Visit www.xe.com for up to date exchange rates.
Credit Cards… MasterCards and Visas are the most popular credit cards used throughout Denmark. American Express and Diners Club are also somewhat accepted cards. You will likely be charged 1% to 2% for each transaction you make while in Copenhagen
ATMs… ATMs are easy to find in Copenhagen. Make sure to withdraw your money in kroners, the local currency. If your card isn't issued from somewhere in Denmark, you may be charged a fee of up to 7%. It is best to withdraw as much as you can within one transaction to avoid paying such high fees as often.
Exchanging Currency... The ATMs in the city will exchange your currency for you. However, there are also several currency exchange centers and many banks that will transfer your cash. Hotels in Copenhagen usually exchange money, but it may be more expensive. Helpful Info.
Climate…
Copenhagen has relatively mild weather since the sea surrounds it. In the summer, the weather averages anywhere from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter, the weather averages around 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The city receives about 170 days of rain each year.
Electricity… Typical of most European countries, the standard voltage in Copenhagen is 220 V. The standard frequency is 50 Hz. The entire nation uses the two-pin continental plug. Therefore, you will need not only to bring a voltage converter but an adapter.
Technology and Communication… Unless you have a CDMA mobile phone, your mobile device should work perfectly fine in Copenhagen. You may need to purchase a European SIM card to avoid roaming charges. There are over 700 free WiFi hotspots throughout Copenhagen, so you shouldn't have any issues staying connected.
Infrastructure and Transportation… There is an extensive network of toll-free roads throughout Copenhagen. However, the city is known as being one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. So, despite its well-established rail and road networks, there are many cycle tracks and trails that receive a lot of traffic and make it easier to get around. In Copenhagen, there is around-the-clock public transportation available. There are bus services, the railways, the metro, and taxis. You can also rent electric scooters and bicycles to get around like the locals.
In Case of an Emergency… Life-threatening emergencies (fire, police, ambulance)- +45 112 Illness or injuries (to speak with doctor or nurse)- +45 1813 Non-emergency (police)- +45 114
Language… Danish is the official language of Copenhagen. As a second language, around 90% of the natives are taught English at a young age. German and French are the city's third languages. Visiting the city, you'll find it easy to understand and communicate with the locals.
LGBT Travel… Copenhagen has a thriving LGBT community, and it is considered one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world. There are a ton of gay clubs, bars, hotels, and cafes near the city center. In August, you can partake in and experience the Copenhagen Pride festival that lasts for six days.
Religion… You'll find that Christianity is the most practiced religion in the city capital. Nearly 80% of the population is Christian. Finding a church or place of worship is easy in Copenhagen. There are some beautiful historic cathedrals and churches as well, including Sankt Petri and the Copenhagen Cathedral.
Getting There… Many airlines fly from the U.S. to Copenhagen. You'll fly directly into the Copenhagen Airport, which serves as the main international airport for the country. From the airport, you can take the metro or the regional train to get to the city center where the Copenhagen Central Station is.
Driving… You can legally drive in Copenhagen for up to six months with a valid U.S. license. The rules and laws of driving are very similar to that of the U.S. It should be easy to get around the city, but it is best to avoid rush hours, which are usually from 8:30 to 9:30 in the morning.
The Experience...
Culture… Great authentic Danish food, folk music, folklore, colorful homes and buildings, historical landmarks, and amiable locals are all part of Copenhagen's culture. Perhaps the best way to experience the culture is by renting a bicycle and acting as the locals do. There are nearly 100 or more galleries and museums throughout the city, as well as a few fantastic theaters. Depending on when you visit, there are many annual festivals, including the Copenhagen Carnival, the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, film festivals, and more.
Bucket List… Visit the colorful homes along the waterfront in the Nyhavn district Explore Freetown Christiania Ride a bicycle around the capital Go to Torvehallerne Market Visit the Church of Our Saviour Climb to the top of the tower of Rundetårn Go to the Carlsberg Brewery
Family Travel Highlights… Go to the amusement park, Tivoli Gardens See the Little Mermaid statue Row a boat through Frederiksberg Gardens Visit the Christiansborg Palace Take a canal cruise Hut for the Six Forgotten Giants
Tourism Authority… Copenhagen Visitor Service Vesterbrogade 4B, 1620 København, Denmark +45 70 22 24 42
Foods to Try... Snegl Flødeboller Smørrebrød Pasteries Flæskesteg Rice pudding Frikadeller Tartlet Rugbrød Stegt flæsk Fishcakes Æbleskiver Medister sausage
Drinks to Try… Scandinavian coffee Akvavit Glogg Mead Punsch Fruit wines
Photography Hotspots… Nyhavn Tivoli Gardens Rosenborg Castle Strøget Amalienborg Fredrick's Chruch Kastellet Christianshavn Rådhuspladsen
Souvenirs to Buy… Christmas ornaments Chocolates Marzipan Porcelain Jewelry Royal Copenhagen Ceramics Legos and toys The Little Book of Hygge Candies